What is Merino wool?

Merino Wool

The Origin

This type of wool takes its name from the breed of sheep that produces it, in this case: the Merino sheep.

The breed is possibly the result from hybridisation from Northern African sheep, introduced to the Iberian Peninsula in the Middle Ages, and a native Spanish breed. At first, Merino sheep were black. Black wool, however, had the disadvantage that it could not be dyed into other colours. Faced with the increase in demand for coloured clothing, sheep farmers and herders were selecting and prioritizing white wool sheep. These white wools could be recoloured by a great variety of dyes of the time.

Monopoly in Spain

Merino sheep wool was widely appreciated thanks to its great fineness, which provided a very soft touch.

Spain had the Merino sheep breeding monopoly from the Middle Ages until the 18th century, when it was introduced in France. During the monopoly period, the exportation of sheep was punishable by death as Merino wool was a unique product in the world and it provided great benefits to the Crown.

Merino wool was sold by Spanish merchants to the best artisans in Europe, especially in Flanders and Italy, to make cloth weaving. The production and trade of this wool was regulated by a guild group known as the Mesta Council, which held significant power during this period. After manufacturing the fabrics, they were distributed all over the world, mainly from Dutch ports.

After the end of the Spanish monopoly, Merino sheep began to be raised in France and other parts of Europe, but were quickly spread to other parts of the world. It was first introduced in South Africa, through the Dutch, and later to Australia and New Zealand.

At the beginning of the 19th century, production went into decline in Spain and the rest of Europe, concentrating from that moment, and until today, in areas of the southern hemisphere such as: Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Patagonia.

Merino Wool

Properties

Since the Middle Ages times, Merino wool was commonly used for the manufacture of all kinds of clothing, among which the woollen cloth for the manufacture of military garments stands out.

Due to its insulating characteristics, great comfort and durability; Merino wool was the go-to material to protect oneself from inclement weather until the arrival of synthetic fibres, which made production substantially cheaper.

As we have already mentioned elsewhere, Merino wool stands out from other yarns due to its extraordinary fineness. The normal diameter range is between 15 and 25 microns, which ensures that Merino wool garments are soft against the skin, unlike other types of wool that itch and are not so pleasant.

A SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVE

Today, Merino wool is experiencing a resurgence as an alternative to unsustainable synthetic fibres.

Society is more and more aware and is willing to pay a little more to acquire higher quality natural products that are better for the environment.

The features of Merino wool make it stand out over synthetic fibres, especially for clothing intended to meet the demands of outdoor sport and adventure.